17 Best Italian Watch Brands You Need To Own
Looking for a timeless Italian watch to add to your collection? This post will show you all the best Italian watch brands to choose from!
When you think of watchmakers, Italy is not the first country that comes to mind! That title has been taken over by Switzerland, and closely followed by the likes of Germany and Japan!
But that’s not to say that other countries don’t produce great timepieces! You’ll find great French watch brands or even British ones and over the years, Italy has stepped up its game too!
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Watches made in Italy are not just functional but they’re designed to be sleek, modern, and timeless combining precision with flair.
So, if you’re looking for some stylish Italian watches to add to your collection, then you’ve come to the perfect place!
Best Italian Watch Brands
Italy is known for many things, like great food, historical landmarks, beautiful art, and fashion. But did you know that it is also home to some top-notch watch brands?
From big names like Bvlgari to lesser-known gems like WeWOOD, Italian watchmakers have a way of creating pieces that are both stylish and well-made.
If you’re curious about watches, or if you want to add a touch of Italian flair to your wrist, this blog post is for you. We’ll explore some of the best Italian watch brands, and what makes them special.
Read on to discover some of the best Italian made watches that are guaranteed to make you say “bravissimo!”
1. Panerai
You can’t think of luxury Italian watch brands and not think of Panerai.
Founded as a watch shop and a watchmaking school in Florence, this brand has been producing fantastic timepieces for more than 150 years. Panerai is even trusted to be the official watchmaker of the Royal Italian Navy.
Panerai has two core lines that continue to be their best-sellers, the Radiomir from 1936 and the Luminor from 1949.
Both lines consist of high-quality, sleek Italian-made watches. Every watch in these lines boasts classic and harmonious designs that are paramount to the brand.
Additionally, Panerai is also famous for its diving watches. Functional yet stylish, these watches have that sophisticated look that doesn’t exactly scream sporty.
Take a look at the Panerai Luminor Submersible, for example. This diving watch wouldn’t look too out of place in a former setting despite its sporty function!
If you love reliable timepieces with iconic designs, Panerai is certainly the Italian watch brand for you!
2. Anonimo
Anonimo is one of the best Italian watch brands for those seeking Italian timepieces that have Swiss watchmaking elements.
What’s unique about Anonimo is the brand’s close history with Panerai. When Panerai moved its production away from Italy in 1997 to Switzerland, Frederico Massacesi hired watchmakers who used to work for Panerai and built Anonimo.
So, it’s no surprise that Anonimo timepieces feature similar movements and aesthetics to Panerai.
That said, with Anonimo, casual elegance is the name of the game. Their watches have sleek yet fresh aesthetics that are extremely versatile. Aside from the watches themselves, collectors also love Anonimo’s distinct cushion-shaped cases.
Today, there are four main Anonimo watch lines, Epurato (chic and timeless), Militare, Nautilo (sporty and perfect for diving), and the Special Series, although the Militare line is perhaps its most iconic collection.
Released in 2001, these powerful military-inspired pieces feature a patented crown-locking system that allows the watches to work in all conditions.
3. Ennebi
Ennebi is an Italian luxury watch brand founded in 2004. Despite the brand’s relatively young age, today, it is one of the most well-known Italian diving watch manufacturers.
Ennebi combines top-of-the-line technology with traditional Italian watchmaking, resulting in vintage-inspired, distinctly Italian timepieces. And of course, its technology is not something to disregard.
Ennebi diving watches are also some of the most powerful you can find on the market with some even being water-resistant up to a whopping 1000 meters underwater.
While Ennebi may not have an extensive catalog, the brand offers some beautiful and captivating watches.
One of the most striking models is the Ennebi Fondale Vintage. This stainless steel watch is adorned with a sleek black leather strap, luminous hands, and a beautiful crown.
4. Filippo Loreti
Filippo Loreti was founded in 2015 through a crowdfunding campaign. The brand aims to craft Italy-inspired modern accessories that are as high-quality as they are stylish.
Since its founding, Filippo Loreti is known for its close relations with its customers. To this day, the brand continues to foster collaborations with the community to create beautiful and exciting new watches.
The brand has an extensive timepiece catalog, ranging from durable diving watches to sophisticated ones.
With a solid 100-meter depth rating, the Filippo Loreti Okeanos line offers the perfect watches for recreational swimming and diving.
Watches from the Okeanos line boast a modern and simplistic design, but if you want something more intricate and unique, take a look at the Venice Moonphase. This model offers a refined appearance at a very accessible price tag.
If you’re looking for cheap Italian watch brands, you should definitely take a look at Filippo Loreti. Their watches aren’t just affordable, but they’re also high-quality and beautifully made.
5. Bvlgari
One brand that can’t miss on any list of Italian watch brands is Bvlgari.
Founded in 1884, it’s perhaps one of the oldest Italian luxury watch brands still operating today. Even though Bvlgari doesn’t specialize in watchmaking, their watches are highly regarded in the horology sphere.
Bvlgari produces timepieces that are undeniably stylish and chic for both men and women. They have a certain Italian flair that no other brand can replicate, making them even more appealing to collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
For ladies, the most iconic is the unique Bvlgari Serpenti line. Meanwhile, the Octo line is the most favored Bvlgari watch collection for men.
In fact, one of the most highly regarded timepieces globally is the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo. This impressive watch boasts a very modern and ultra-slim exterior that only the best watchmaker can achieve.
While Bvlgari has made a name for itself in watches, it also makes some of the best Italian handbags, jewelry, and perfumes.
6. Meccaniche Veloci
We might be cheating a little with this entry since the brand currently operates in Geneva, Switzerland.
But since it was founded in Milan in 2006, it’s only fitting that Meccaniche Veloci makes it to this list of Italian watch brands.
The brand’s timepieces are inspired by the world of motorsport, giving them a sporty and modern appearance no other brand could replicate.
Most of their watches, including from their most famous Icon Quattrovalvole collections, feature four sub-dials that display different time zones.
If you’re looking for eccentric Italian watches, then Meccaniche Veloci is the perfect choice for you!
7. Breil
Even though Breil was named after a Swiss municipality, it’s an Italian brand through and through, so don’t let its name fool you!
Founded in Milan in the 1930s by Innocente Binda, today, it’s one of the few famous Italian watch brands that still remains a family-owned business.
Despite what one might presume from its name, Breil doesn’t produce watches with a Swiss movement. Instead, it mostly sells Japanese quartz movement watches along with some automatic movement watches.
And even though it isn’t considered a luxury brand, it still has an elegant look to it!
It produces sophisticated timepieces for both men and women with steel models, such as the Dazzle Chrono Lady, Darling 2H Lady, and Manta Chrono Gent being standouts.
8. Meccaniche Veneziane
Here is another newer Italian watch brand that has collectors and enthusiasts falling in love.
Combining Italian design and Swiss manufacturing, Meccaniche Veneziane focuses on crafting impressive yet low-maintenance timepieces.
The brand’s timepieces draw inspiration from the Renaissance and Venetian traditions.
They also maintain traditional watchmaking processes while still coming up with new innovations. The result? Watches that are as durable and reliable as they are beautiful.
Meccaniche Veneziane focuses on producing unisex timepieces with their three most iconic collections being Redentore, Nereide, and Nereide Ultraleggero, all drawing inspiration from historical designs and principles.
The versatile Redentore line takes inspiration from the Basilica del Redentore. Meanwhile, the diving line, Nereide receives its name from the robust Nereide submarine. Lastly, the innovative Nereide Ultraleggero draws inspiration from the Vitruvian Man.
9. U-Boat
Looking for exclusive and limited edition made in Italy watches? Look no further than U-Boat!
This brand has been producing quality timepieces for around 20 years. Despite this, the journey actually started in 1942 when the founder’s grandfather, Ilvo Fontana designed a watch for the Italian Navy.
The designs were then discovered by the founder, Italo Fontana who proceeded to establish a watch company in Tuscany with the motto “A New Dimension in Time. The U-BOAT Journey Has Started.”
Flashy and eye-catching, it’s no wonder why U-Boat watches are a favorite among top celebrities.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, Nicolas Cage, David Beckham, and even Giorgio Armani himself have been spotted wearing this brand — which is not surprising considering the big price tag that comes with U-Boat watches.
Some of the most notable pieces from U-Boat include the vintage-inspired Doppiotempo 46 Bronze, the powerful Classico Sommerso, and the fashionable Stratos 40 BK.
These options are made for men, though U-Boat also crafts some amazing timepieces for women.
10. Gucci
Craving luxurious yet daring timepieces? Gucci watches may be the best fit for you! Established by Guccio Gucci in 1921, Gucci is one of the most iconic Italian fashion houses.
As a well-established fashion brand, Gucci is known for its extensive selection of luxury items including one of the best Italian perfumes, handbags, clothing, and watches, although they didn’t venture into them until 1972.
Gucci caters to both men and women, offering everything from classic and elegant watches to more casual and fun timepieces.
If you’re looking for something classy for an important dinner, it’s hard to go wrong with the G-Timeless and Gucci Diamantissima collections. Meanwhile, for a more casual approach, try one of their fun and colorful 25H watches.
11. Visconti
Photo via Visconti – Visconti is one of the best Italian watch brands.
Visconti began as a luxury pen manufacturer and it was only in 2013 that they started offering watches too.
Even though it’s a new brand compared to other famous Italian watch brands on this list, it has mastered the art of watchmaking and only provides the best timepieces made by experienced watchmakers.
Despite its small collection of timepieces, Visconti has managed to capture the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors everywhere.
They currently offer five watch models, each with a distinctly gorgeous design and immaculate precision.
If you’re craving a versatile Italian-made timepiece, Visconti’s Watch Lava Italian Style will be perfect for you.
But if you’re an old soul who loves Italian art and music, the Opera or Opera GMT watch will make you feel as if you’re attending an opera.
Lastly, for those who are sporty yet elegant, you can’t go wrong with Visconti’s Roma 60’s Chrono and Roma 60’s Sporty!
12. Locman
Founded in 1986 on Elba Island, Locman is one of the biggest Italian watch brands in the horology sphere renowned for its amazing chronographs and beautiful designs.
With its proximity to the ocean, it’s no wonder that Locman’s timepieces are mostly inspired by the sea and the spirit of the oceans.
One quirky and fun design from Locman is the charming Amerigo Vespucci. The face design features a map of the world, inspired by the explorer’s adventure.
Furthermore, Locman has been a partner of Ducati Motor, collaborating together to create a dedicated collection of luxury watches.
13. Officina del Tempo
Photo via Officina del Tempo
Sporty, strong, and powerful are some of the words that best describe Officina del Tempo’s watches.
Founded in 2000, Officina del Tempo creates timepieces that are highly inspired by sports like racing and sailing with each watch looking sophisticated and detailed yet rugged.
If you’re a sporty person who wants charming and reliable watches, this is the brand to look out for.
Officina del Tempo offers watches for men and women ranging from nautical-inspired watches from the Sail Collection to the modern and dynamic watches of the Race series.
14. Emporio Armani
Founded by the iconic fashion designer Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani is a well-loved brand in the luxury fashion sphere.
They may be internationally known for their perfumes and fashion wear, but their watches also deserve a mention!
Catering to both men and women, Emporio Armani offers an extensive collection of timepieces.
With a legacy rooted in Italian fashion, Emporio watches are a fusion of meticulous craftsmanship and timeless designs.
Their watches are extremely versatile and elegant, ideal for almost every occasion, whether it’s a night out or a meeting with executives.
Despite Armani’s reputation as a high-fashion brand, you don’t have to break the bank for their timepieces. Their watches lean toward the more accessible side compared to other prestigious Italian watch brands.
15. Fendi
Originally established in 1925 in Rome, Fendi began its journey as a leather goods shop and has since grown into a global luxury fashion empire.
Owned today by the luxury conglomerate LVMH, Fendi expanded its repertoire to include watches in the late 20th century.
Thanks to Fendi’s commitment to Italian craftsmanship and sophisticated designs, their watches quickly became popular among men and women around the world.
The watches are known for their opulence, incorporating precious stones, metals, and leather.
This sumptuous design choice is very apparent in all of Fendi’s watch collections, including the classic F is Fendi and Fendastic lines.
Aside from traditional, classic designs, Fendi also offers watches with more modern styles, such as those from the O’Lock Vertical and Fendimania lines.
16. WeWOOD
Founded in Tuscany, WeWOOD is one of the most unique Italian watch brands you’ll see on the market.
If you look closely at the brand’s name, you can probably guess what sets this brand apart from others.
That’s right! Unlike other brands that use steel, bronze, or even ceramic, WeWOOD utilizes wood to create its timepieces.
WeWOOD caters to both men and women, creating unique, Tuscany-inspired wooden watches that are free of toxic and harmful chemicals.
Sturdy and well-made, these wooden watches aren’t just a novelty, they’re also quite reliable.
Aside from the eccentric designs, WeWOOD is also unique in its philosophy. As a brand, WeWOOD has an eco-friendly spirit.
They follow through with this philosophy by pledging to plant a tree for every watch sold. It is truly the best Italian watch brand for those who care about the environment!
17. Unimatic
Last on our list of the best Italian made watches is Unimatic, a young independent watch brand founded in 2015 by Giovanni Moro and Simone Nunziato.
However, despite its young age, it has managed to create a name for itself.
Unlike other brands on this list, Unimatic watches actually don’t have that Italian look to them. Forget the classic and intricate designs boasted by other famous Italian watches.
Unimatic timepieces have a very simple and practical aesthetic, looking foreign to the typical Italian design.
Unimatic’s first and most iconic timepiece was called the Modello Uno. The minimalistic yet powerful collection received resoundingly positive feedback from enthusiasts.
Since then, Unimatic has also come up with two more models, called the Due and Tre, which are equally amazing.
If you’re in the mood for simple and timeless Italian-made watches, look no further than Unimatic!
Final Thoughts On the Best Italian Watch Brands
That concludes our ultimate list of Italian watch brands. Boasting unparalleled craftsmanship and chic designs, watches from Italy are indeed something else!
Yes, they may not be Cartier or Rolex, but a number of Italian watch brands also stand out for their elegance and innovation.
So whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone seeking that singular statement piece, you will not go wrong with any of the Italian watches above!
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